At first glance, Mermaid reminds us of the famous fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen that most people associate with Denmark. Conceived in 1960, the character of Hans Bølling goes beyond the framework of the fairy tale and embodies an ethereal and refined feminine aura. Its carefully rounded shape and thoughtful lines offer a feeling of serenity.
Mermaid's design is both sophisticated and simple. You can create new expressions simply by turning the head, fins, body or arms. The head can also be removed to put the arms on the head. The lower part of its body is made of oak wood, while the upper parts are made of maple wood.
Material oak and maple
Dimensions H16,7 x 12,9 cm
Mermaid
Hans Bølling
Hans Bølling's (born in 1931) work is known for its play, humor and wit. A passionate spirit whose practice and products are inspired by creative diversity, Bølling’s interest in architecture drew him back to school for a secondary degree after training as an advertising designer, growing his practice beyond objects to include villas, living complexes and town halls.
Early in his career he began to craft small figures from botanicals as gifts for family and friends. The precision and personality in his objects paved the way for success as he quickly began to sell the wooden figures to stores.
As luck would have it, Bølling shortly thereafter won an award for the designs and invested the winnings into his own carpentry machine. The access to the means of production kick-started the production of Bølling’s now-famous Duck and Duckling in the 1950’s.
Today, Hans still stops by the Architectmade office, checking in on his beloved products.